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Mapping music in London

Sound Connections has carried out extensive research and mapping of non-formal music provision for children and young people in challenging circumstances in the London region. The study has been carried out as part of the Musical Inclusion programme funded by Youth Music from 2012-14 with the aim of identifying London’s ‘cold spots’ – those areas where there are limited or no opportunities for young people to make music and where challenging circumstances stop them from accessing such opportunities where they do exist.

Our research has drawn together data on the major sources of publicly funded non-formal music provision from 2005-12, and provides an overview of the current landscape until 2014. The data covers investment by Sound Connections, Youth Music, the Greater London Authority and Arts Council England. This has been correlated with the wards demonstrating the highest levels of multiple deprivation across London.

Following consultation with the key stakeholders above, as well as AND and FMS, we have identified five highest priority ‘cold spot’ areas which exhibit both a lack of historic and current provision, as well as the highest deprivation in the capital. These are:

Sound Connections will deliver strategic projects in each ‘cold spot’ area. The research will also inform our Innovate programme which is launched this week and which will incubate and develop ten new music projects across London.